Head Chef and Cooks Wanted – Indian Vegetarian Restaurant

About the role

Laddu Gopal is growing, and we're looking for an experienced Head Chef and skilled Cooks to join our kitchen team in Truganina. We serve a broad Indian vegetarian menu featuring chaats, tandoor dishes, curries, biryanis, Indo-Chinese favourites, breads and desserts, including a selection of No Onion No Garlic dishes. We also cater for birthdays, functions and off-site events.

Key responsibilities

Head Chef:

• Lead daily kitchen operations and coordinate the kitchen team

• Maintain consistency in taste, presentation, portion sizes and food quality

• Plan preparation schedules for restaurant service, functions and catering orders

• Train, supervise and support chefs and kitchen hands

• Manage stock levels, ordering, storage and supplier requirements

• Monitor food costs, wastage and portion control

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and food safety

• Assist with menu development, specials and catering packages

• Work closely with management to improve kitchen efficiency and customer satisfaction

• Remain organised and composed during busy services

Cook:

• Prepare and cook dishes according to Laddu Gopal's recipes and standards

• Complete food preparation before each service

• Maintain consistent taste, presentation and portion sizes

• Assist with dine-in, takeaway, delivery and catering orders

• Follow food-safety, hygiene and storage procedures

• Keep your workstation and shared kitchen areas clean and organised

• Work efficiently with the broader kitchen team

• Help monitor stock and reduce unnecessary food wastage

About you

Head Chef:

• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef or senior chef

• Strong knowledge of Indian cuisine, particularly vegetarian cooking

• Confidence leading a kitchen team and allocating responsibility

• Experience managing stock, food costs, quality control and kitchen systems

• Strong communication, organisation and time-management skills

• Catering or function experience will be highly regarded

Cook:

• Previous experience working in a commercial kitchen

• Knowledge of Indian cooking and vegetarian dishes is preferred

• Ability to follow recipes and maintain consistent standards

• A reliable, punctual and team-focused attitude

• Willingness to learn and take direction

• Relevant cookery qualifications are preferred but not essential for experienced applicants

Experience with North Indian, tandoor, chaat or Indo-Chinese cooking will be highly regarded for both positions. Applicants must be available to work evenings, weekends and public holidays when required. Applicants must have valid Australian working rights.

About us

Located in Truganina, Laddu Gopal is known for Indian vegetarian food, a welcoming atmosphere and options for different dietary preferences, including No Onion No Garlic dishes. Alongside regular restaurant service, we host intimate celebrations and provide catering for events across Melbourne.

Benefits

• Full-time and part-time opportunities

• Competitive pay based on skills and experience

• A supportive, family-oriented workplace

• Stable hours and long-term opportunities for the right people

• The opportunity to work across restaurant service, catering and private functions

• A growing business where your ideas and experience will be valued